The NYU Jazz Orchestra, an 18-piece big band, is the premier performing jazz ensemble at New York University featuring talented jazz musicians from around the world. With NYU Jazz Studies located in the heart of Greenwich Village, New York City, the group performs regularly at legendary jazz clubs including the Blue Note, Birdland and Jazz at Lincoln Center. A wide variety of jazz artists have been featured with the ensemble over the past few years including vibraphonist Stefon Harris, saxophonists; Joe Lovano, Lee Konitz, Chris Potter, Dave Liebman, Lenny Pickett, trumpet players; Randy Brecker, Brian Lynch, Alex Sipiagin, guitarists; Larry Coryell, John Scofield, pianist; Kenny Werner, Jim McNeely, Gil Goldstein, drummers; Dafnis Prieto, Antonio Sanchez, bassist Richard Bona, Mike Richmond. The group has recorded two CDís with legendary jazz producer Teo Macero, entitled Study In Contrast in 2007 and NYU Jazz Orchestra Plays the Music of Teo Macero in 2005.

Dr. Dave Schroeder, Director of Jazz Studies at NYU, is continually developing an interactive environment between students, artist/faculty that stretches from New York City to points around the globe. Since 2001, his main musical focus has been leading the eclectic New York City-based ensemble "Combo Nuvo," where he displays his skills on multiple woodwinds and in composition. He has also performed or recorded with a wide array of artists including Kenny Werner, Gil Goldstein, Lenny Pickett, Teo Macero, Larry Coryell, Airto Moreira, Oscar Cartro-Neves, Brian Lynch, Lee Konitz, Don Friedman and Dave Liebman.

Rich Shemaria is a composer, arranger, pianist, and conductor who grow up in Southern California during the 1960s and 70s. Moving to New York City in 1985, he entered the jazz scene by forming his own big band, the Rich Shemaria Jazz Orchestra. A prolific composer and arranger, Rich has received commissions from noted jazz groups including UMO, The Airmen of Note, and Diva. Additionally, Rich has arranged music for Joe Lovano, John Scofield, Chris Potter, Lenny Pickett, Brian Lynch, Richard Bona, and Teo Macero. A member of the NYU Jazz Faculty since 2003, Rich teaches composition and arranging as well as conducts the NYU Jazz Orchestra.